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Metrogel Ingredients

Metrogel treats rosacea and has various ingredients that treat all of the symptoms of skin irritation and acne. Metrogel is a topical medicine that is 92 percent water-based. The gel reduces the lesions or bumps commonly associated with acne rosacea and works specifically on adults with this problem. The ingredients in Metrogel are also in other acne and skin care products.

  1. Metronidazole

    • The active ingredient of Metrogel is metronidazole, which is an antibiotic. When used to treat infections caused by bacteria, metronidazole enters the bacterial and protozoal cells, which interrupts their genetic material. By damaging the DNA, the ingredient prevents bacteria and protozoa from forming new cells, which inevitably kills off the micro-organisms. Metronidazole works in a variety of medications that treat ulcerative tumors, wounds, leg ulcers and pressure sores infected with anaerobic bacteria. In Metrogel, metronidazole reduces the appearance of acne rosacea by clearing up the accompanying infection and inflammation.

    Hydroxyethyl Cellulose

    • Hydroxyethyl cellulose is an inactive ingredient in Metrogel that serves as a thickener, allowing the gel to spread around the surface of the skin. In animal studies reported in the "New England Journal of Medicine" in 1987, high doses of hydroxyethyl cellulose produced brain, nervous system and behavioral effects, but currently, the thickener is not suspected of being a toxin in humans.

    Niacinamide

    • Metrogel includes niacinamide, an ingredient from the vitamin B group in many acne products. As a topical, niacinamide provides anti-inflammatory qualities, reducing dryness, irritation and redness caused by the bacteria inside the skin's pores. Niacinamide also reduces sebum excretion, so the glands pump out less oil. In addition, the ingredient acts as a moisturizer by preventing water loss to the skin. Niacinamide also naturally occurs in the body as tryptophan, an amino acid found in animal foods.

    Propylene Glycol

    • Propylene glycol (PG) is a petroleum derivative that acts as a solvent, surfactant or wetting agent. PG easily penetrates the skin, weakening protein and cellular structure. As a preservative and inactive ingredient in Metrogel, propylene glycol maintains the consistency of the product. PG keeps the skin moist and soft, and the gel never dries out.

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